Lewis Cleaning Services: What to Know Before You Hire

Lewis Cleaning Services offers pressure washing and exterior cleaning across South Carolina

Lewis Cleaning Services is a pressure washing company operating in South Carolina that handles residential and commercial exterior cleaning. The company uses pressure washing equipment to clean driveways, decks, siding, roofs, and other outdoor surfaces. Before you contact them or any pressure washing provider, it helps to understand what the service involves, what it costs, and what questions to ask.

Pressure washing removes dirt, algae, mold, and stains from hard surfaces using high-pressure water spray. The process is faster than hand-scrubbing and reaches areas that are difficult to clean manually. However, the high pressure can damage some materials if applied incorrectly, so the operator's experience matters.

Key Takeaways

• Pressure washing works well on concrete, brick, and sealed wood but can damage soft materials, shingles, and paint if the pressure is too high.
• Most pressure washing companies charge by the square footage of the area being cleaned or by the hour, and prices vary based on how dirty the surface is and how difficult it is to access.
• Before hiring any pressure washing service, ask whether they carry liability insurance and what surfaces they recommend against pressure washing on your property.
• Pressure washing is not the same as soft washing; soft washing uses lower pressure and cleaning solutions and is safer for delicate surfaces like roof shingles and painted wood.

What pressure washing can and cannot clean

Pressure washing works best on dense, hard surfaces. Concrete driveways, brick patios, and sealed stone respond well to high-pressure cleaning and show dramatic results. Decks made of pressure-treated wood can usually handle pressure washing if the operator keeps the nozzle at least 12 inches away and uses a lower pressure setting.

Pressure washing can damage softer materials. Asphalt shingles, vinyl siding, and painted surfaces can be stripped or gouged by high pressure. Older brick and mortar joints may crumble. Wood that is not sealed or is already weathered splinters easily. A reputable pressure washing company will tell you upfront which surfaces on your property should not be pressure washed and will suggest alternatives like soft washing or hand cleaning for those areas.

How pressure washing companies price their work

Pricing varies by company and by the job. Some charge per square foot of surface area—typically ranging from a few cents to over a dollar per square foot depending on the region and the difficulty of the work. Others charge an hourly rate or a flat fee for specific jobs like "driveway cleaning" or "deck cleaning."

The final cost depends on how dirty the surface is, how large the area is, how difficult it is to reach, and whether the company needs to move obstacles or set up equipment. A heavily stained driveway costs more to clean than a lightly soiled one. A second-story gutter or a roof requires more equipment and safety measures than ground-level work. Ask for a written estimate before work begins so you know what to expect.

Questions to ask before hiring

Ask whether the company carries liability insurance. If the pressure washer damages your home, your car, or a neighbor's property, insurance protects you. Ask what surfaces they recommend pressure washing and which ones they would handle differently. A company that says they can pressure wash everything is not being honest about the risks.

Ask whether they use chemicals or just water, and if they use chemicals, what kind and whether they are safe for your landscaping and pets. Ask how long the cleaning will last—some surfaces stay clean longer than others, and some companies offer follow-up treatments to slow down regrowth of mold or algae. Ask whether they will move planters, outdoor furniture, or other items, or whether you need to clear the area beforehand.

Pressure washing versus soft washing

Soft washing uses lower water pressure—usually under 500 PSI—combined with cleaning solutions to remove dirt and organic growth. Pressure washing typically uses 1500 to 4000 PSI or higher. Soft washing is gentler on delicate surfaces like roof shingles, painted wood, and stucco. It is also more effective at killing mold and algae because the cleaning solution does the work rather than the force of the water.

Soft washing takes longer and costs more per job because it requires more time and specialized solutions. However, for surfaces that cannot tolerate high pressure, soft washing is the right choice. Some companies offer both services; others specialize in one or the other. If your home has delicate exterior surfaces, ask whether the company recommends soft washing for any part of the job.

What to expect during and after cleaning

Pressure washing is loud and creates a lot of water runoff. The company should let you know how long the job will take and what time they plan to arrive. Ask whether they need access to a water source and an electrical outlet. Ask what they will do with the runoff—some areas have regulations about where water can drain, especially if it contains chemicals or sediment.

After cleaning, most surfaces dry within a few hours. Some companies recommend waiting a certain amount of time before walking on a freshly cleaned deck or driveway. If the company applied a sealant or protective coating, ask how long it needs to cure before rain or foot traffic. Ask about maintenance—some surfaces benefit from periodic cleaning to prevent regrowth of mold or algae, while others stay clean for years.

Finding and comparing pressure washing services in South Carolina

Lewis Cleaning Services is one option among many pressure washing companies in South Carolina. To compare, ask each company for references from recent jobs, check whether they are licensed and insured, and read reviews from past customers. Ask whether they are familiar with the specific surfaces on your property—someone who regularly cleans historic homes or delicate siding has different expertise than someone who focuses on concrete.

Get written estimates from at least two companies before deciding. The lowest price is not always the best value if the company lacks insurance or experience with your type of surface. A company that takes time to assess your property and explain what they can and cannot do safely is usually worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will pressure washing damage my deck?

Pressure washing can damage a deck if the pressure is too high or the operator holds the nozzle too close. Pressure-treated wood decks can usually handle 1500 PSI or less at a distance of 12 inches or more. Older wood, composite decking, and painted surfaces are more vulnerable. Ask the company what pressure they use and whether they have experience with your specific deck material before they start.

How often should I have my driveway pressure washed?

It depends on your climate and how much traffic your driveway gets. In humid areas of South Carolina, mold and algae can return within a year or two. In drier areas, a driveway may stay clean for several years. Some homeowners wash annually for appearance; others do it every few years. The company can recommend a schedule based on how quickly dirt and growth return to your property.

Can pressure washing remove all stains?

Pressure washing removes surface dirt, algae, and mold very well. Some stains—like rust, oil, or paint—may require chemical treatment or specialized cleaning methods. Ask the company whether they can remove the specific stains you see. If pressure washing alone will not work, they may recommend a chemical treatment or suggest that the stain is permanent.

Is it safe to pressure wash my roof?

Pressure washing a roof is risky. High pressure can loosen or crack shingles, damage the underlying wood, and create leaks. Soft washing is safer for roofs because it uses lower pressure and cleaning solutions. Many companies recommend against pressure washing roofs altogether. If your roof needs cleaning, ask whether soft washing or hand cleaning is a better option for your shingle type.

What should I do to prepare for pressure washing?

Move outdoor furniture, planters, and toys away from the area being cleaned. Close windows and doors. Ask the company whether you need to cover air conditioning units, electrical outlets, or other equipment. If you have delicate plants near the area, ask whether the runoff or cleaning solutions could harm them. Most companies will tell you what to do during a pre-job conversation.